In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to add a custom vinyl decal logo to your road case. If you’ve ever wanted to impress your clients by rolling branded flight cases off your truck, we’re going to show you how.
Quick Answer: Clean the road case panel, measure and tape the decal into position, remove the backing, and apply pressure as you work to smooth out any bubbles. Then carefully peel off the decal’s masking tape and admire your work.
Preparation & Tools
Aside from a decal and a flight case, there are a few things you’ll need before you can start working.
- A work surface large enough for the flight case panel
- Something to measure
Measuring tape, ruler, level, or anything with a flat straight edge. - Tape
Masking tape or gaffer’s tape.
How To Add A Vinyl Decal Logo To A Road Case
Time needed: 10 minutes.
- Prepare the surface of the flight case panel
Make sure the case isn’t greasy or dirty; wash and wipe the panel down with a rough sponge. - Tape the decal roughly in the center of the panel
Only apply a small piece of tape to the top edge of the logo so you can still make adjustments. You can add more tape as you dial the position in. - Measure and adjust until the decal is centered and square
To make sure the decal is centered, opposite edges should be an equal distance from the closest edge of the panel.
To make sure the decal is square, the top and bottom of each edge should be an equal distance from the closest edge of the panel. - Tape the decal in position
Secure a long strip of tape along the top edge of the decal. - Take the backing off the decal
Flip the decal over, using the tape as a hinge, and carefully peel off the decal backing. Take care with small letters and intricate designs. - Apply the decal logo
Slowly fold the decal back into position, pulling it taught to keep its shape. - Press the logo down and smooth out bubbles
Smooth over and press down on the decal with your hand. Then use a tool such as a level or plastic squeegee to go over it again more firmly. - Peel off the tape you used to position the decal
- Peel off the decal’s masking tape
Take your time on this step and work slowly. Mistakes at this stage can destroy the decal. - Reassemble your flight case and enjoy!
Decal Placement On Hinged Cases
To add a vinyl decal to a hinged case, the process is much the same as above. However, there is a little something extra to think about in terms of positioning.
If you’re like us, you’ll want your logo to be the right way up when the case lid is open. It sounds simple but can be an easy detail to overlook. Position your decal so that the bottom of the logo is on the hinge side of the case, and you won’t go wrong.